Clare Charters Psychodynamic Therapy

Are you attuned to nature? ...

Winter Soltice is a time of much needed rest....

“ Like nature and the animal kingdom around us, this time of hibernation is so necessary for our tired limbs, our burdened minds”

The winter solstice time is no longer celebrated as it once was, with the understanding that this is a period of descent and rest, of going within our homes, within ourselves and taking in all that we have been through, all that has passed in this full year which is coming to a close... like nature and the animal kingdom around us, this time of hibernation is so necessary for our tired limbs, our burdened minds.

Our modern culture teaches avoidance at a max at this time; alcohol, lights, shopping, overworking, over spending, comfort food and consumerism.
And yet the natural tug to go inwards as nearly all creatures are doing is strong and the weather so bitter that people are left feeling that winter is hard, because for those of us without burning fires and big festive families, it can be lonely and isolating. Whereas in actual fact winter is kind, she points us in her quiet soft way towards our inner self, towards this annual time of peace and reflection, embracing the darkness and forgiving, accepting and loving embracing goodbye the past year.

"Winter takes away the distractions, the buzz, and presents us with the perfect time to rest and withdraw into a womb like love, bringing fire & light to our hearth".
. and then, just around the corner the new year will begin again, and like a seed planted deep in the earth, we will all rise with renewed energy once again to dance in the sunlight

Life is a gift ❤ a Happy winter to you all...

Artwork by Jessica Boehman

IBD may disrupt gut-brain axis, raising risk of anxiety, depression Research in mice suggests that IBD may raise the risk of anxiety and depression by interfering with the communication between the gut and the brain.

Since September is I wanted to re-share this. Depression has many faces. There have been times when I couldn't brush my teeth or hair or shower and there have been times I've looked completely fine, even happy, on the outside.

I also know how frustrating it can be when someone in your life is depressed. You want them to snap out of it, you want to be able to help or make it better. Be kind. Help where you can. Listen. Be supportive. Love them. Encourage them to get help. Provide resources if you can. But mostly, just love them. They're trying as hard as they can.

Important role of Vagus Nerve....

The vagus nerve - our biological antidote to anxiety and stress A counsellor explains how stimulating our vagus nerve can help reduce stress.